Like we used to be

Chapter 29

The sun hung high in the sky, casting a shimmering glow over the surface of Lake Michigan. Quinn, stead the boat with one hand, looked back at Charlie and Lacy who were laughing and squealing with Jack,Luke and Lottie. The twins leaned over the side to trail their fingers through the water.

"Keep an eye on them." Quinn called over the hum of the engine.

Jack grinned, tipping his hat back. "They've got enough sense not to jump in, right beans?"

The boat bumped gently against the dock, and Quinn jumped out to secure it. "Alright, everyone off. Time to let Mom know what a great time we had," he said, lifting Charlie and Lacy onto the dock.

"Let's go find Mommy!" Lacy chirped, grabbing her brother's hand and racing toward the house.

Quinn followed, feeling a familiar warmth as he watched his children's excited rush. He knew Mila would be waiting, probably on the couch where she'd been resting before they left. He entered the house.

Quinn headed towards the living room. Sure enough, Mila lay on the couch, her hand resting protectively over her belly, a book half-open on her chest. Her hair fanned out over the pillow, and even in sleep, she looked beautiful and serene. Quinn's heart swelled with love.

He knelt beside her, pressing a soft kiss to her lips. Mila stirred, her eyes fluttering open with a sleepy smile. "Hey, you," she murmured.

"Hey yourself," Quinn replied, brushing a strand of hair from her face. He leaned down to kiss her stomach. "And hello to you too, little one. We had an awesome time on the boat. Can't wait for you to join us out there."

Mila chuckled softly, her hand finding his. "She'll be here soon enough."

Just then, Jack and Luke walked in, their voices carrying through the open doorway. "Oh look, it's the father Quinn," Jack teased, a grin spreading across his face. "Talking to the belly again, Quinn?"

Luke joined in, smirking. "Careful, Quinn, you might get a response one of these days."

Quinn rolled his eyes but smiled good-naturedly. "Laugh all you want. You'll understand when it's your turn."

Jack feigned horror. "Me? Kids? No thanks, I'll stick to being an uncle."

Luke raised his beer in a mock toast. "Seconded."

Mila shook her head, laughing. "You two are impossible."

Quinn rose to his feet, pulling Mila gently into a sitting position. "Ignore them, love. They're just jealous because they don't have this kind of connection."

Mila smiled up at him, her eyes filled with warmth. "I wouldn't trade it for anything."

The rest of the day passed in a pleasant blur. The family gathered on the porch for dinner, a mix of grilled vegetables, burgers, and Mila's favorite, fresh fruit salad. Lottie entertained Charlie and Lacy with stories, while Quinn and Mila sat together, watching their family with contentment.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, Quinn wrapped an arm around Mila's shoulders. "You doing okay?" he asked quietly.

Mila nodded, leaning into him. "I am. I think this little one likes the lake air too."

Quinn smiled, placing a hand on her belly. "Good. This place is special to us. I want our kids to grow up loving it as much as we do."

Mila's hand covered his, their fingers interlocking over the swell of her stomach. "They will," she said softly. "They already do."

The evening drew on, and the stars began to twinkle in the clear night sky. Quinn's brothers eventually headed inside, still ribbing each other over old jokes and shared memories.

Quinn and Mila stayed out on the porch, the night air cool but comfortable. Lottie had fallen asleep on a deck chair, a blanket pulled over her.

"She's so sweet," Mila said, nodding toward her sister. "Always wants to be close."

"She adores you," Quinn replied. "And you're a wonderful big sister."

Mila smiled, her eyes shining. "Thank you, Quinn. For everything. For today, for our family. For loving me."

Quinn pulled her close, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "I should be the one thanking you. You've given me everything I could ever want. I love you, Mila."

"I love you too," she whispered, resting her head against his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart.

As they sat there, wrapped in each other and the peaceful night, Quinn knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together. Their family, their love, was their greatest strength. And with that, they could conquer anything.

~~~Izzy~~~

It's almost over 😭